Valentine Ozigbo, the former CEO of Transnational Corporation of Nigeria (Transcorp), has expressed concerns over the growing insecurity in Anambra State and criticized Governor Charles Soludo’s response to the crisis.
Speaking at a Townhall Meeting in Lagos, Ozigbo, who was the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the 2021 Anambra State governorship election, voiced his dissatisfaction with Soludo’s silence on critical security issues, particularly the recent kidnapping of retired Archbishop, Most Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala of the Niger Province.
Ozigbo noted that the governor’s failure to address the rising wave of kidnapping and other security challenges was alarming.
He emphasized that Soludo’s lack of concern for the plight of citizens reflected a deeper leadership deficit.
According to Ozigbo, the governor’s style of leadership lacks the emotional intelligence, compassion, and openness to listen to others, all of which are essential qualities in addressing the state’s growing insecurity.
“As a leader, one of the most important skills is emotional intelligence, and that is what I bring to the table,” Ozigbo stated.
“Leadership is not just about knowing what to do; it’s about being humble enough to listen to others, respecting your people, and showing love and compassion. These traits are severely lacking in the leadership of Anambra State today.”
He also criticized Soludo for not speaking out publicly after the kidnapping of Archbishop Okpala, which he described as indicative of the governor’s indifference to the suffering of the people.
“You hear of an archbishop being kidnapped, and there is no comment from the governor. This is unacceptable,” he said.
Ozigbo also highlighted the governor’s high-handed approach to leadership, which he termed the “Akaodo syndrome,” and lamented the lack of law and order in the state.
He questioned the general satisfaction of the people of Anambra, asserting that there was a widespread sense of unhappiness and concern among residents.
“The truth is, Anambra people are not happy. The level of insecurity is horrendous, and there is no hope. There is no sign that anything will improve under this administration,” Ozigbo said, urging a change in leadership style. “Anambra people are deeply concerned about their safety and well-being, and they are not excited about going home for Christmas. The situation is worrying.”
The former Transcorp boss also emphasized the need for leadership that is inclusive, responsive, and compassionate.
“Leadership is not just about what you can do; it’s about who you are,” Ozigbo said, stressing that the state needs a leader who is capable of understanding and addressing the people’s challenges with empathy and humility.
Ozigbo, who is now positioning himself as a gubernatorial candidate for Anambra on the platform of the Labour Party (LP) in the upcoming election, reiterated his commitment to providing a different kind of leadership—one that is rooted in emotional intelligence, humility, and a genuine desire to improve the lives of the people.
